Trees produce vital oxygen, improve the climate, filter dust and pollutants and provide humidity and air movement. They provide a habitat for a wide variety of animals, enliven and structure the cityscape or townscape and dampen noise. To ensure that trees are preserved, they are protected - especially in densely populated areas - but also in the open countryside.

For the general protection of the species, the Federal Nature Conservation Act prohibits the felling of trees outside areas used for gardening and all other woody plants (including hedges and bushes) between March 1 and September 30. This includes uprooting and clearing. This prohibition does not apply to pruning and trimming to remove the growth of plants or to maintain the health of trees.

If you wish to cut down a tree or remove hedges or bushes within this time window, you will need to obtain a fee-based exemption from this ban. If necessary, you must provide compensation or replacement for the felled trees.

It should also be noted that the removal of trees and shrubs (regardless of the time of felling) may also violate special prohibitions under species protection law or protected area regulations.

If your municipality has a tree protection statute, these regulations must also be taken into account.